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Skitchewaug Wildlife Management Area

Springfield; Windsor County 216 Acres

Skitchewaug WMA

For more information about this unit please visit the web page:

General Description:

Skitchewaug Wildlife Management Area (WMA) is a 216-acre parcel. The previous owner has retained timber rights on the 43 acres abutting Route 143. The WMA is located four miles east of Springfield on Route 143.The main block is bounded on the west by Interstate 91, and on the east by Route 5. The only access is over a permanent right-of-way from Route 5 that is difficult to locate and with no parking. The Route 143 portion is easily accessible though no official parking exists.

Unique Features:

Though small, most of the WMA functions as a wintering area for white-tailed deer. Oak and hickory trees on the parcel are an important food source for deer as well as other wildlife species. The steep cliff facing Route 5 is an historical nesting site for peregrine falcons. Records from the State archives suggest the presence of rattlesnakes in the very early 1900s. Significant natural communities include hemlock swamp and red maple-black gum swamp. Glyceria acutiflora, (sharp manna-grass) has been found along the northeast border of the WMA. It is listed as endangered in the State of Vermont.

Recreation Overview:

Hunting is the primary recreational activity that occurs here. Most of the activity centers around deer season; however, turkey, ruffed grouse, and gray squirrels are also hunted here. Approximately 0.5 mile of secondary snowmobile trail crosses through the center of the Mountain Block of Skitchewaug WMA. This section of trail is maintained by the local snowmobile club named the Skitchewaug Trail Riders. Wildlife viewing is a popular activity in the vicinity of the Mountain Block of Skitchewaug WMA. Bird watchers often will park along the turnout on Route 5 near Mollica’s Christmas tree plantation hoping to get a glimpse of the peregrine falcons or ravens nesting on the cliffs.

The Long Range Management Plan for the Ascutney Management Unit was completed in 2016.